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Many of Hollywood's recent adaptations of young adult fiction are confounding: They seem far more invested in the fantasy trappings and wonky internal mythology of their made-up universes than they are in the deeper metaphors of body shock, transformation and revelation. They are made as if their audiences actually care about vampires and werewolves, not the dark corners of the human psyche they represent. "The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones" is no exception. It's the first film adaptation from Cassandra Clare's series of novels, and the fact that there is already at least one sequel planned feels more like a threat than a treat. Directed by Harald Zwart...

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Many of Hollywood's recent adaptations of young adult fiction are confounding: They seem far more invested in the fantasy trappings and wonky internal mythology of their made-up universes than they are in the deeper metaphors of body shock, transformation...

** (out of four)A convoluted plot. A generic adventure score. A lead performance that’s already played its best hand. What is this, a “Pirates of the Caribbean” sequel?No, it’s the follow-up to Guy Ritchie’s mildly amusing 2009 take on “Sherlock...